Name: Spinach and Artichoke Bagel Melts Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz fresh baby spinach; 1 13 oz can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped; 1/2 small white onion, finely diced; 1 tsp minced garlic; 3/4 cup mayonnaise; 3/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese; 6 plain bagels, cut in half

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 11 reviews

If you are searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a satisfying snack that is bursting with creamy, cheesy goodness, the Spinach and Artichoke Bagel Melts Recipe is about to become your new best friend. These toasty bagels are generously topped with a luscious homemade spinach and artichoke dip that bakes to golden, bubbly perfection. Every bite offers a perfect balance of fresh spinach, tender artichoke, and melty cheeses, making this dish ideal for brunch, lunch, or any time you want a warm, comforting treat that feels indulgent yet approachable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface filled with a creamy mixture that appears thick and soft. The mixture has a pale off-white base with visible layers of green leafy vegetables and soft yellow chunks distributed evenly throughout. The texture looks rich and smooth, with the green and yellow ingredients slightly folded into the cream, creating an uneven but consistent pattern. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this Spinach and Artichoke Bagel Melts Recipe are simple but vital to creating that irresistible blend of flavors and textures. Each item plays a unique role, from the freshness of baby spinach to the creamy richness of cream cheese and the sharp tang of Parmesan, all coming together to make this dish a winner.

8 oz fresh baby spinach: Provides vibrant color and a mild, fresh flavor that lightens the richness.
1 13 oz can artichoke hearts: Adds tender chunks and a subtle tangy bite, essential for that signature dip taste.
3/4 cup mayonnaise: Brings moisture and creaminess, helping to bind all ingredients smoothly.
3/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Gives a cool, slightly tangy note, balancing heaviness with brightness.
4 oz cream cheese softened: The star of creamy luxuriousness that makes every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
1/2 small white onion finely diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and gentle crunch to contrast the softness.
1 tsp minced garlic: Infuses the dip with savory depth and that irresistible aromatics punch.
1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Offers a mild sharpness that lifts the overall flavor profile just so.
1 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Introduces a salty, nutty complexity crucial for a rich dip.
2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese: Melts gorgeously over the bagels to create an ooey-gooey topping.
6 plain bagels cut in half: Serves as the sturdy yet soft base, perfect for toasting and holding all the creamy goodness.

How to Make Spinach and Artichoke Bagel Melts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Veggies

Drain the artichoke hearts well, then chop them into bite-sized pieces along with the fresh baby spinach. This prep ensures every spoonful of dip includes those vibrant, tender veggies that bring freshness and texture to the melt.

Step 2: Whip the Creamy Base

In a stand mixer or a large bowl using a hand mixer, blend together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and softened cream cheese until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy. This base is what makes the dip so luscious and spreadable, creating that silky texture you’ll love.

Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters

Gently fold in the finely diced white onion, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard. These ingredients add layers of flavor—from sweet and pungent to tangy—that elevate the dip beyond ordinary.

Step 4: Incorporate the Veggies and Cheeses

Mix in the chopped spinach, artichokes, shredded Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. Stir everything evenly so that the spinach and artichoke blend is perfectly balanced with cheesy richness throughout the dip.

Step 5: Assemble the Bagel Melts

Lay the halved bagels flat on a baking sheet and generously spread about a quarter to a third cup of the prepared spinach and artichoke dip on each piece. The even spread ensures every bite gets glorious cheese and veggie filling.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in a preheated 375 degrees Fahrenheit oven and bake for 7 to 8 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and enticingly hot. For an extra touch of golden, broil the bagels for an additional minute, carefully watching to develop slight browning spots over the melted cheese.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the bagel melts rest for a moment after coming out of the oven to avoid any burn from piping-hot cheese, then serve immediately while everything is at its melty, savory best.

How to Serve Spinach and Artichoke Bagel Melts Recipe

The image shows a close-up view of small round bread pieces layered with a creamy, light beige topping mixed with green leafy herbs and light browned spots across the surface, giving a slightly toasted look. The bread is arranged in a stack towards the back and in front on a wooden, round board with bark on the edges. The texture of the topping looks smooth with some small chunks mixed in, and the edges of the bread are golden brown. The background is softly blurred with a white cloth visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few flakes of red pepper can brighten the presentation and add a pop of color and subtle heat. A dusting of extra Parmesan also adds a sharp, appealing finish to these bagel melts.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple garden salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or crunchy vegetable sticks such as carrots and celery to balance the richness. A light cup of tomato soup also makes for a comforting combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the bagel melts into smaller bite-sized pieces for a party platter, perfect for sharing. You can also use flavored bagels like jalapeño-cheddar or everything bagels to add extra layers of fun flavor. Serving them on wooden boards with a variety of dips turns an appetizer into an impressive grazing spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though that might be rare!), place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making leftovers ideal for a quick next-day snack or light meal.

Freezing

You can freeze the prepared spinach and artichoke dip in a separate container before spreading on the bagels. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge. However, freezing the assembled bagel melts is not recommended as the texture can become soggy after thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, place the bagel melts on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and cheese re-melty. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the bagel chewy and the cheese rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing it into the dip to avoid soggy bagels.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream cheese, vegan mayo, and dairy-free shredded cheeses, many of which melt nicely and maintain the creamy texture.

Can I prepare the dip in advance?

Absolutely! The dip can be made up to a day ahead. Keep it covered in the fridge, then spread on bagels and bake right before serving for maximum freshness.

What kind of bagels work best?

Plain bagels are classic, but everything bagels or garlic bagels add extra flavor that complements the spinach and artichoke dip perfectly.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and adds a slight tang plus a boost of protein, making the dip feel a little lighter.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach and Artichoke Bagel Melts Recipe is one of those magical dishes that everyone loves. It feels special but comes together quickly with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something warm and cheesy, give this recipe a try—you might find it becoming a regular in your kitchen rotation!